Mario Bustamante-Leiva, a 49-year-old Chilean national, has pleaded guilty to stealing DHS Secretary Kristi Noem’s Gucci bag, which contained $3,000 in cash and her DHS badge. The incident occurred during an Easter family dinner at a Washington, D.C., restaurant, according to court records. The thief, Bustamante-Leiva, has admitted to a string of thefts across the city, targeting victims at restaurants before fleeing. His guilty plea is expected to lead to deportation, as he is deemed removable from the United States.
According to federal court filings, Bustamante-Leiva also faces charges of wire fraud and first-degree theft. The charges could result in up to 20 years in prison and $250,000 in fines for wire fraud, as well as up to 10 years and $25,000 in fines for theft. The sentencing guidelines also recommend a fine of up to $9,500, forfeitures up to $3,174, and additional restitution to be determined by the judge.
It has been revealed that Bustamante-Leiva has a history of criminal activity, with eight prior convictions abroad. These include multiple jail terms in Chile and the United Kingdom. The theft of Noem’s bag, which occurred at The Capital Burger, was described as a professionally executed robbery. Security footage showed a white man wearing an N95 mask, dark pants, and a baseball cap grabbing the bag and walking out of the restaurant.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, who was dining with her family on Easter, shared the details of the theft in a report. She revealed that her bag was stolen from the floor beside her table at the restaurant. The contents included $3,000 cash, her driver’s license, passport, medication, makeup bag, blank checks, DHS badge, apartment keys, and a Louis Vuitton Clemence wallet. Noem’s statement emphasized that the theft was professionally executed, highlighting the sophistication of the criminal’s actions.
Following the incident, bustamante-Leiva was arrested by the Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Secret Service. The investigation has revealed a pattern of behavior, with the suspect targeting victims at restaurants. Federal authorities are now focusing on the sentencing process, which could have significant financial implications given the potential fines and restitution required. The case has drawn public attention, highlighting the need for enhanced security measures in public spaces.
While the Department of Justice has not provided further details, the case has sparked discussions about the effectiveness of current security protocols in high-profile locations. This incident serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities in public places and the importance of vigilance and awareness among individuals. As the sentencing is approached, the case continues to be closely monitored by law enforcement agencies and the public alike.